While many people visit Nashville to soak up the history of country music at the city’s museums (like the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum), others prefer enjoying the tunes in person. The best way to do that is to visit Broadway, downtown Nashville’s main thoroughfare. Lower Broadway is nicknamed the “Honky Tonk Highway” because of the numerous spots that host live acts daily. What’s more, there’s no cover charge to the establishments, so you can bar hop as you please.
While all the bars host live music acts, each venue has a distinct atmosphere that makes it stand out from other honky-tonks along Broadway. Some of the most popular spots include:
Legends Corner: Country music records and memorabilia adorn the walls of Legends, and the bar features a stage and dance floor front and center, in addition to bar seating and tables. Visitors say the atmosphere at Legends is superb – lively but not too loud – and it’s the perfect place to post up with a drink and enjoy the bands.
Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge: An iconic Nashville mainstay, Tootsie’s is easily recognizable by its lavender facade. People love Tootsie’s because it has three stories (including three stages) and features several bars. This honky-tonk can get fairly rowdy and crowded come nighttime, and visitors warn of high drink prices. To learn more about Tootsie’s, check out the full U.S. News review.
Layla’s: Layla’s exudes a more relaxed, laid-back vibe than some of the other honky-tonks on Broadway, with musicians singing everything from old-school country and bluegrass to newer country, rockabilly and Americana. The bar’s rafters are decorated with license plates from across the country and you can bring yours to add to the collection. Travelers say the musicians here are top-notch and the bartenders are friendly.
The Stage on Broadway: This bar draws visitors looking to let their hair down and dance it out. The Stage features a large stage and dance area, in addition to a popular bar and rooftop patio. Visitors say the bands at The Stage are all incredible. Keep in mind: From 6 p.m. to closing, this venue only welcomes patrons 21 and older.
Honky Tonk Central: A spacious bar, Honky Tonk Central boasts three levels of live music. Travelers say this is a great spot for visitors of all ages, adding that there’s plenty of seating, ample space for dancing and the music acts are particularly talented. This spot also offers specialized bachelor and bachelorette packages that include an open bar and food.
Redneck Riviera: If you’re looking for a honky-tonk with a patriotic theme, John Rich’s Redneck Riviera could be the place for you. (Military vets and active service members get 2-for-1 domestic beers on their first round.) Travelers typically enjoy the friendly atmosphere as well as the live music at this barbecue-slinging three-story venue.
Casa Rosa: Singer-songwriter Miranda Lambert’s Casa Rosa is the first bar and restaurant on Broadway affiliated with a female country star. The four-level venue features five bars and two stages. Patrons recommend the Tex-Mex fare and appreciate the live music and unique pink decor.